Function Extension Transfer in Information Processing Apparatus
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional information processing apparatuses, such as digital multi-function printers, face challenges in transferring function extensions to new devices after replacement, leading to wasted paid-for functions and lack of secure management post-shipment.
Innovation Solution
An information processing apparatus and system that manages function extensions by using an information storing device to hold and track function restriction canceling keys and licenses, allowing for secure transfer and management of function permissions over a network, enabling quick extension or reduction of functions at a low cost, while preventing unauthorized use through encryption and authentication.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a canceling key is generated using information specific to the information processing apparatus (one-to-one relationship), then the function restriction can be cancelled for the original apparatus, but the purchased function cannot be transferred to a new apparatus when replacement occurs
Solution Approach 1:
The canceling key is no longer tied exclusively to a single apparatus but is designed to be universally applicable across multiple apparatuses of the same type. The management apparatus stores canceling keys that can be transferred to any apparatus within the system, enabling the same key to serve multiple functions and apparatuses, thus resolving the contradiction between security for the original apparatus and transferability to new apparatus.
Solution Approach 2:
A management apparatus is introduced as an intermediary between the user and the information processing apparatuses. This intermediary manages the storage, distribution, and transfer of canceling keys, enabling secure transfer of functions between apparatuses while maintaining authentication and control, thus resolving the contradiction between direct one-to-one key binding and flexible transferability.
2Reliability
If function extensions are managed with secure authentication and encryption, then unauthorized use is prevented, but the complexity of the management system increases
Solution Approach 1:
The complex authentication and encryption functions are extracted from the individual information processing apparatuses and centralized in a dedicated management apparatus. This separates the security management complexity from the operational apparatuses, allowing them to remain simple while still providing strong security through the centralized management system's authentication and encryption capabilities.
Solution Approach 2:
The system provides automated authentication and license management where the management apparatus automatically verifies apparatus identities, manages canceling key distribution, and controls function transfers without requiring manual intervention. This self-service approach maintains high security through automated cryptographic verification while keeping the user interface simple and the operational complexity low.
Data Source
AI summary
Processing for extending function of an information processing apparatus having functions, the use of which is restricted, is managed by canceling the restriction of the use of function in association with an information storing device which is connected to information processing apparatus A, B. The information storing device holds information on a list of product keys and the number of possible function extensions (the number of restriction cancellations and the number of licenses) as information for canceling the restriction in advance. The number of information processing apparatus, the functions of which are extended, is managed by reducing the number of possible function extensions each time when one function of the information processing apparatus A is extended. Unnecessary function is deleted from the information processing apparatus A so as to increase the number of licenses. Correspondingly, the function of the information processing apparatus B can be extended.